Teen remains critical after ATV wreck

A 14-year-old boy remained in critical condition Tuesday night following an ATV crash in Golden Gate Estates that sent two Collier County teens to the hospital Monday.

Raul San Pedro has been listed in critical condition since the crash at about 4:30 p.m. Monday on 43rd Avenue Northeast between Everglades Boulevard North and 40th Street Northeast.

San Pedro was driving an ATV with 16-year-old passenger Andrew Fernando Garcia when they were rear-ended by a 2002 Acura TL driven by 58-year-old Mark Tirado, Florida Highway Patrol officials said. Garcia was listed in serious condition at Lee Memorial Hospital on Tuesday night.

Troopers said Tirado, who was treated for minor injuries, didn't see the ATV as he drove eastbound on 43rd Avenue Northeast, hitting the ATV from behind and sending it tumbling several times. Troopers are waiting on alcohol tests for Tirado, and charges are pending.

The teens were driving on the road, FHP Lt. Greg Bueno said. State law prohibits ATVs from traveling on public roads.

Neighbors said the crash occurred near a sandy trail that runs parallel to a canal along 40th Street Northeast.

San Pedro and Garcia were transported to Lee Memorial Hospital, with San Pedro later sent to Tampa General Hospital.